This paper provides an overview of the current state of the arts and health field in England, through an examination of practice, research and policy developments. Five features of arts and health practice are identified: the scale of the sector, regional variations, mapping of arts and health initiatives, recent conferences and symposia, and the role of key agencies supporting arts and health initiatives.

The aim of the research was to elicit and understand how people told their stories of their involvement with a community arts programme promoting mental health. Using a narrative approach, the research included interviews with 11 participants who were interviewed up to three times over a one-year period. The data were subject to a narrative analysis, incorporating thematic, event and relational analysis. Partial individual narratives from four participants are presented. Findings reveal that the project facilitated new personal, social and occupational opportunities for participants.

Center on Aging, Health & Humanities, The George Washington University , Washington, USA

This review is about the latest theories of the underlying mechanisms that explain why music and art promote health and have positive influences on the course of illness with ageing.

It is also about the latest findings demonstrating the positive effects that music and the arts in general have on health with ageing; cost savings to society associated with these positive findings will also be discussed.

In this qualitative research study, we have used the arts-based research methodology, Appreciative Inquiry, to conduct a broadly based thematic and narrative analysis of art, loss/transition, and healing in formal/institutional and informal/family healthcare settings. Drawing on 21 loosely structured 1-hour interviews with African, British, Canadian and US caregivers, we have identified 13 overlapping themes of loss and healing.

A Research report for Arts Council England and Arts & Health South West. In April 2005 Arts Council England South West and the South West Arts and Health Forum (now called Arts & Health South West) commissioned independent arts consultant Ruth Hecht to undertake an audit and analysis of Arts and Health activity in the South West. The research that took place between May and September 2005 forms the basis of this summary report published in June 2006 to celebrate the official launch of Arts & Health South West. The information was used to inform an action plan for Arts and Health in the region.

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Not sure what it's all about? Check out the What is arts in health? section and be inspired by some of the examples. Read the newly published charter for the National Alliance for Arts Health and Wellbeing here.